By Nayda Hernandez
Faysel Ahmed Selat
The Lake News Community Hero for June is Faysel Ahmed Selat, who embodies the philosophy “societies thrive when communities are empowered, respected, and listened to.” Faysal is the President of the Somali Community Association of Queensland (SCAQ), member of the Queensland Police Service Multicultural Advisory Group (PMAG) and is committed to making our community a safer, more enjoyable, and culturally inclusive place for all.
Faysel’s childhood experiences taught him the importance of standing together and believes that societies thrive when communities are empowered.
What do you most enjoy about volunteering in your local community?
“I have a deep appreciation for the rich history of Inala, previously known as Serviceton South, and surrounding suburbs. Inala is not just a place to live, it’s where my heart feels a sense of belonging. The people here are not just strangers, they are my brothers and sisters. That’s why I am proud to be a strong voice and advocate for improving our local services.
For many years I have witnessed first hand financial and cultural struggles that many face in the community. This is why I accept the responsibility that comes from being a community leader. We desperately need a free community soccer field and sporting fields in general, and a swimming pool for locals to use. At this moment there are no community soccer fields that players have access to – we only have leased fields that we can not use. It’s imperative that we empower our youth to thrive, nurturing their potential to contribute meaningfully and ensuring our community reaches its fullest potential. I am also approached by many about the need for more free community centres.
In my spare time I train with Odoyaasha F.C and Saacidaada F.C. It is proven that sports help people learn self-control, promote good health, and build confidence. I can see my time volunteering promoting our soccer games is working. We have lots of youth choosing to play sport rather than going out and being tempted to do something wrong. I will keep working on promoting sports as the best way to have fun.
What is your volunteer role as President of SCAQ about?
“As President of SCAQ, my role is to advocate for and support the Somali community in Southeast Queensland, especially in Inala where we have a large population of people of Somali heritage. I really enjoy helping our locals who don’t speak or have limited English receive the help they need. My team and I enjoy organising local cultural events, soccer tournaments, Eid prayers, and festivals.
How have life’s challenges inspired you to give back to our local community?
“Growing up in a refugee camp in Eritrea, I learned the value of community support and caring for others. As an Inala local, I see first-hand the challenges new arrivals face due to language and cultural barriers. I knew that without support, thriving here would be difficult. Since then, helping my community, especially in Inala, Forest Lake and surrounding suburbs has been my priority and my greatest joy. Australia is a beautiful country with a lot of opportunities, but for newcomers, it can also be daunting in the first few months or even years. My childhood experiences taught me the importance of standing together. Helping my community navigate the complexities of settling in a new country has been the most fulfilling role I’ve ever had. I also speak and work with many local youth who need support. That’s why working with Federal police and other organisations to host soccer tournaments is very important. It’s a great way to challenge stereotypes and show our next generation of multicultural youth that they are supported.
Every job, especially community leadership, comes with daily challenges. To tackle them effectively, I focus on doing what’s right, consulting with the right people, and aiming for positive outcomes. I believe in the power of those who promote unity over division.
I encourage readers to contact me at president@scaq.com.au.
